Hayes, who was communications director of Hilton’s health club division LivingWell, takes on a global remit for the group, which includes its betting and gaming, hotels and health club divisions.

She reports to group corporate affairs director Alex Pagett, who said Hayes’ immediate priority would be to co-ordinate the group’s global network of PR agencies.

Hilton’s hotels and Ladbrokes are separate businesses, with their own PR teams. Hayes is expected to handle ‘bigger-picture and strategic issues’ that affect Hilton, such as the deregulation of gambling in the UK.

‘She’ll make sure that we have one voice coming out of Hilton Group, but also ensure all the voices are chirping to the same tune,’ said Pagett. ‘She will act as a focal point to ensure regions do not operate in isolation.’